Labradors at JRD Tata Sports Complex on Friday. Picture by Bhola Prasad

Dog lovers in the steel city went wow-wow as the perfectly groomed and well-behaved canines from all over the country put their best paw forward on the first day of the 51st and 52nd annual Championship Dog Show on Friday.

Organised by Jamshedpur Kennel Club, the first day tested the obedience and agility of the 50-plus canines of around six different breeds. The most common breeds that took part were German Shepherd, Labrador and Cocker Spaniel.

However, the event this time is much bigger and grand because Jamshedpur Kennel Club is also hosting the 15th and 16th international dog show simultaneously.

For the first time, French outfit Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has given the kennel club the opportunity to host the two-day international show, starting Saturday.

Four rings, two galleries and paid kennels for canines is what you see once you enter the JRD Tata Sports Complex, the venue for the twin shows. Of the four rings, three are meant for those participating in the international show, while one is reserved for Jamshedpur Kennel Club. Till last year, there used to be only two rings.

The main attraction for the handlers and dog owners this time is the special kennels meant for the participants to rest. Jamshedpur Kennel Club has put up 26 kennels. These special kiosks are equipped with chairs, fans and combs to dress their coat. Each of these kennels is available for Rs 5,000 for three days.

“Till last year, we did not get many requests for paid kennels. As this time it is an international show, queries about kennels kept pouring. We have erected 26 furnished kennels,” said R.K. Sinha, member of Jamshedpur Kennel Club.

Altogether around 400 dogs of 30-odd breeds are participating in the twin shows. While those who will walk the ramp for the annual Championship Dog Show will get certificates from Kennel Club of India (KCI), canines who will take part in the international event will be given the certificate by FCI. However, the international certificate will come a few days later.

“We are hosting two competitions — one under FCI and the other under KCI. One dog can even participate in both the contests. This is the first time that we have changed the look of the venue and the amenities are far better,” Sinha added.

A panel of six judges — five from abroad and one from KCI — will judge the shows. Three participants from Germany, France and the Unites States will participate in the FCI event.

Giant Schnauzer, Borzoi and Afghan Hounds and their owners flew down to Calcutta and boarded Steel Express. The trio will reach here on Saturday morning.

The organisers are hoping that a many visitors will attend the all-breed shows scheduled for the next two days.